Voluntary No. 4 in D Major

This nice, and quite large work, comes from a collection called: "Twelve Voluntaries - Selected from the Works of several eminent composers" and "never before published."

The fourth work in the collection begins with a short prelude, marked "Largo alla breve." It is mostly a series of "unadorned" chords. I SLIGHTLY embellished the written notes with an opening "flourish" and a few ornaments. If you have the skill and are so inclined, I'm sure you could do more than I did. Also, a harpsichord performance would probably need some "added features" to complete the effect.

The prelude leads directly into an "overture-style" movement marked "Allegro moderato."This section reminds me VERY much of G. F. Handel, which certainly would make sense.

The entire piece is indicated to be played upon the "Full organ" (of the period). For this performance, I used the Mixture and Trumpet of the Choir coupled to the Great (NO mixture or reed) and to the Swell, which DID have the mixture but no reed. I'm not sure if the sound is "too bright" for the period, but I think it sounds OK.

If you enjoy the sounds and styles of 18th century English music, you'll find that you have LOTS to choose from in this collection.

You may also find that these will "stretch your technique," as these are quite a bit beyond "casual sight-readers." ;-)

The score is attached below as well as a newly discovered photo of "Anonymous Composer"! He's the guy who wrote these pieces (except the one by Stanley), and LOTS others too! :-)